When it comes to playing online slots, one of the most important factors to consider is volatility. Volatility, also known as variance, refers to the level of risk associated with a particular slot game. In this article, we will delve into the world of low volatility and high volatility slots, exploring their characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. We will also provide tips for playing different volatility slots and answer some frequently asked questions.
Before we dive into the details, it’s worth noting that you can find a wide range of slot games with varying volatility levels at online casinos such as Jackpot Jill, which offers a vast selection of games from top providers like NetEnt and Microgaming.
Understanding Volatility in Slots
Volatility is a measure of how often a slot game pays out and the size of those payouts. A low volatility slot game will pay out smaller amounts more frequently, while a high volatility slot game will pay out larger amounts less frequently. It’s essential to understand that volatility is not the same as the return to player (RTP) percentage, which is the average amount of money a player can expect to win back over time.
For example, a slot game with an RTP of 96% and low volatility may pay out smaller amounts regularly, while a slot game with the same RTP but high volatility may pay out larger amounts less frequently.
What Does Volatility (Variance) Mean?
Volatility, or variance, is a statistical measure of the spread of a slot game’s payouts. It’s calculated based on the game’s paytable, which lists all possible winning combinations and their corresponding payouts. A slot game with low volatility will have a more even distribution of payouts, while a game with high volatility will have a more skewed distribution, with fewer but larger payouts.
Volatility and Risk: A Key Relationship
Volatility and risk are closely related in slot games. A high volatility slot game is generally considered riskier than a low volatility game because it pays out less frequently. However, when it does pay out, the amounts are typically larger. This means that players who choose high volatility slots need to be prepared for the possibility of longer losing streaks, but also the potential for bigger wins.
Why Volatility Matters to Players
Volatility matters to players because it affects their overall gaming experience. Players who prefer low volatility slots tend to enjoy the frequent small wins and the sense of entertainment that comes with it. On the other hand, players who prefer high volatility slots are often chasing the thrill of a big win and are willing to take on more risk to achieve it.
Low Volatility Slots: Consistent Wins, Smaller Payouts
Low volatility slots are perfect for players who enjoy consistent wins and smaller payouts. These games typically have a higher hit frequency, which means that players can expect to win more often, but the amounts will be smaller.
Characteristics of Low Volatility Slots
Low volatility slots usually have the following characteristics: frequent small wins, smaller payout sizes, and a lower risk level. Examples of low volatility slots include Starburst by NetEnt and Thunderstruck II by Microgaming.
Advantages of Playing Low Volatility Slots
The advantages of playing low volatility slots include more frequent wins, which can be entertaining and engaging, and a lower risk level, which means that players are less likely to lose a large amount of money quickly.
Disadvantages of Playing Low Volatility Slots
The disadvantages of playing low volatility slots include smaller payout sizes, which may not be as exciting for some players, and the potential for the game to become repetitive or boring due to the frequent small wins.
Best Low Volatility Slots (Example Titles)
Some popular low volatility slots include Gonzo’s Quest by NetEnt, which has an RTP of 96% and a hit frequency of 41.1%, and Immortal Romance by Microgaming, which has an RTP of 96.86% and a hit frequency of 31.21%.
High Volatility Slots: Big Wins, Infrequent Payouts
High volatility slots are perfect for players who are chasing the thrill of a big win and are willing to take on more risk. These games typically have a lower hit frequency, which means that players can expect to win less often, but the amounts will be larger.
Characteristics of High Volatility Slots
High volatility slots usually have the following characteristics: infrequent large wins, larger payout sizes, and a higher risk level. Examples of high volatility slots include Dead or Alive by NetEnt and Break da Bank Again by Microgaming.
Advantages of Playing High Volatility Slots
The advantages of playing high volatility slots include the potential for large payouts, which can be life-changing, and the thrill of the chase, which can be exciting and engaging.
Disadvantages of Playing High Volatility Slots
The disadvantages of playing high volatility slots include the higher risk level, which means that players are more likely to lose a large amount of money quickly, and the potential for longer losing streaks, which can be frustrating and demotivating.
Best High Volatility Slots (Example Titles)
Some popular high volatility slots include Book of Dead by Play’n GO, which has an RTP of 96.21% and a hit frequency of 25.44%, and Montezuma by WMS, which has an RTP of 95.86% and a hit frequency of 22.22%.
Low vs. High Volatility Slots: A Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Low Volatility Slots | High Volatility Slots |
|---|---|---|
| Win Frequency | Frequent | Infrequent |
| Payout Size | Smaller | Larger |
| Risk Level | Lower | Higher |
| Bankroll Impact | Less Fluctuating | More Fluctuating |
| Session Length | Can Play Longer with Smaller Budget | Requires Larger Budget for Longer Play |
| Player Type | Players seeking consistent wins and entertainment | Players seeking big wins and thrill of the chase |
| Ideal For | Bonus Wagering, Casual Play | Players with large bankrolls and patience |
Choosing the Right Volatility for Your Play Style
Choosing the right volatility level for your play style is crucial to ensuring that you have an enjoyable and rewarding gaming experience. It’s essential to consider your bankroll, goals, and risk tolerance when selecting a slot game.
Consider Your Bankroll
Your bankroll should be a significant factor in determining the volatility level of the slot game you choose to play. If you have a smaller bankroll, you may want to opt for a low volatility game to minimize your risk.
Think About Your Goals
Your goals should also influence your choice of volatility level. If you’re looking to win smaller amounts frequently, a low volatility game may be the best choice. However, if you’re chasing a big win, a high volatility game may be more suitable.
Factor in Your Risk Tolerance
Your risk tolerance is also crucial in determining the volatility level of the slot game you choose to play. If you’re risk-averse, a low volatility game may be the best choice, while a high volatility game may be more suitable for players who are willing to take on more risk.
Demo Play is Your Friend
Demo play is an excellent way to test the volatility level of a slot game before committing to real money play. Most online casinos offer demo play options, which allow you to play the game for free and get a feel for its volatility level.
Tips for Playing Different Volatility Slots
Here are some tips for playing different volatility slots:
Tips for Low Volatility Slots
When playing low volatility slots, it’s essential to set a budget and stick to it. You should also take advantage of bonus features and free spins to maximize your winnings.
Tips for High Volatility Slots
When playing high volatility slots, it’s crucial to be patient and not get discouraged by longer losing streaks. You should also set a budget and stick to it, as the potential for large payouts can be tempting.
FAQ
What is RTP and how does it relate to volatility?
RTP, or return to player, is the average amount of money a player can expect to win back over time. While RTP and volatility are related, they are not the same thing. A slot game with a high RTP may still have high volatility, and vice versa.
Can I change the volatility of a slot game?
No, you cannot change the volatility of a slot game. Volatility is determined by the game’s paytable and is set by the game provider.
Is one volatility «better» than the other?
No, one volatility is not inherently «better» than the other. The choice of volatility level depends on your personal preferences, bankroll, and goals.
Where can I find information about a slot’s volatility?
You can usually find information about a slot’s volatility in the game’s paytable or rules section. Some online casinos also provide volatility information for each game.
How does volatility affect bonus features in slots?
Volatility can affect bonus features in slots, such as free spins and bonus games. High volatility slots may have more lucrative bonus features, but they may also be triggered less frequently.
